Fast-Scan Laser Rangefinder Tracking With Low-Latency Noise Filtering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rangefinder technologies, such as LiDAR, are unsuitable for applications requiring fast response times or low latency, particularly when detecting and tracking fast-moving objects or from fast-moving vehicles, due to latency issues and noise susceptibility.
Innovation Solution
A tracker laser rangefinder system that includes a laser source, fast-scan mirror, sensor, and controller to detect, target, and track objects in real-time, utilizing digital signal processing to filter noise and increase signal-to-noise ratio, and a controller to output angle and range data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If existing rangefinder technologies (LiDAR) are used, then measurement capability is provided, but response time is too slow and latency is high for fast-moving objects
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the tracking task into two distinct modes: search mode for initial target acquisition and track mode for continuous high-speed tracking. This segmentation allows the system to optimize performance for each specific task, achieving fast response times in track mode while maintaining measurement precision through the coordinated operation of both modes
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between search mode and track mode based on target acquisition status. The fast-scan mirror operates at different speeds and patterns depending on the mode, and the laser pulse repetition frequency is adjusted dynamically. This dynamic adaptation enables the system to achieve both fast response times during tracking and maintained precision through periodic search updates
2Speed
If fast scanning is used to track fast-moving objects, then response time improves, but noise susceptibility increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs feedback through the controller that continuously monitors return pulse detection signals and adjusts fast-scan mirror positioning accordingly. The controller receives real-time feedback from the sensor and modifies tracking parameters to maintain target acquisition while filtering noise through signal processing algorithms that distinguish valid return pulses from noise based on timing and intensity patterns
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters dynamically based on tracking conditions. The laser pulse repetition frequency is adjusted according to target range and speed, the fast-scan mirror scanning speed is modified based on target motion, and sensor integration time is optimized. These parameter changes allow the system to maintain fast tracking speed while adjusting sensitivity to minimize noise susceptibility under different operational conditions
3Length of stationary object
If laser power is increased to improve detection range, then range performance improves, but eye safety and noise levels worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic pulsed laser operation instead of continuous wave emission. High-power laser pulses are transmitted at controlled repetition frequencies, allowing the system to achieve long detection range through peak power while keeping average power low for eye safety. The pulsed operation creates distinct time gates for detecting return signals, improving signal-to-noise ratio without requiring continuously high power levels
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs self-service through time-gated detection where the sensor is only active during specific time windows corresponding to expected return pulse arrival. This time-gating mechanism allows the system to detect weak return signals from long ranges while ignoring noise from other time periods, effectively extending detection range without increasing laser power or compromising eye safety
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system achieves accurate and fast detection, targeting, and tracking of objects by concentrating light onto a small spot, filtering noise, and increasing signal-to-noise ratios, enabling longer range performance and real-time object tracking.
Implementation Method 1
a laser source arranged to generate and emit a laser pulse
Implementation Method 2
a fast-scan mirror arranged to deflect and steer the laser pulse to an object
Implementation Method 3
a sensor arranged to receive a reflection of the laser pulse from the object and output a return pulse detection signal
Implementation Method 4
The range of the object can be calculated based on a period of time comprising the first time as a start time and the second time as a stop time
Data Source
AI summary
A tracker laser rangefinder for detecting, targeting, locating or tracking an object in real time in a field of view, including a laser source arranged to generate and emit a laser at a first time in response to a laser trigger signal; a fast-scan mirror arranged to deflect and steer the laser to an object in a scan plane; a sensor arranged to receive a reflection of the laser from the object at a second time and output a return laser detection signal; and a controller arranged to receive the return laser detection signal and determine a first angle, a second angle and a range to the object. The angles can be based on a position of the fast-scan mirror and the range can be calculated based on a period of time.